Osteoporosis and implants

Osteoporosis is a well-known and well-spread disease, mostly among women after the menopause. It hits the bone balance by blocking bone regeneration thus boosting its resorption, ending in bone weakness or loss. Since dental implants stability and function are due to bonal structure, there have been several myths and stories around, regarding osteoporotic patients and implant therapy. So let us get things straight.

For some years now osteoporotic patients get the so called bis-phosphonate pills prescripted (brand names might vary in different countries, so there are none given here; for further information about your given medication, please consult your general physician). These pills reduce or even block bone destruction by targeting the cells responsible for it. Unfortunately, a side-effect of this medication can be localized necrosis of exposed bone after tooth extraction or implant placement, possibly leading to bone damage and/or implant loss. Therefore, such medication can be fatal for implant-based restorations.

Fortunately, in most cases there are ways to combine these two therapies and managing possible complications by minimizing the risks. So we really advise you not to give up on your quality of life if you get the diagnosis osteoporosis. There is indeed a life after that and it can be as good as prior to it!